Deep cycle batteries are unique power sources for marine applications. They're designed to be discharged down to practically no power at all, and then
you can charge them back up to a brand-new state
.
Do you need a special charger for deep cycle batteries?
Do deep cycle batteries need a special charger?
Yes, you need a charger (and ideally a smart charger) designed specifically for keeping deep cycle batteries healthy to get good results
. Because deep cycle batteries aren't designed to handle the excess heat and rapid charging of a regular/traditional battery charger.
How do you charge a dead deep cycle battery?
Slowly charge your battery for 24 hours with your battery charger
. The battery lids do not need to be replaced because there is a risk of some liquid spillage during the charging phase owing to the hot solution. Check your battery's current volt measurement after 24 hours. The battery's power is expected to improve.
How do you bring a deep cycle battery back to life?
You can recondition lead acid batteries by
first fully charging the battery, then slowly discharging it over a period of several hours
. Be sure to discharge the battery all the way to zero volts (or as close as possible) then recharge it again. Repeat this process several times.
What kind of battery charger do I need for a deep cycle battery?
What Voltage Do I Need?
The voltage of the charger must match the output voltage of the battery
. If your boat has a 12v battery, you'll require a 12v charger. The same applies to two 12v batteries in a parallel setup—the voltage does not double in this setup, and you'll still need a 12v battery charger.
What amp should I charge my deep cycle battery?
For example, a typical full-size auto battery is about 50 amp hours, so you would choose a 10 amp charger that would take about 6 hours to recharge it if the battery were completely dead. Another instance would be a marine deep cycle battery rated at
100 amp hours
.
How do you tell if a deep cycle battery is fully charged?
A full recharge should see a maximum temperature rise of 10 degrees Celsius
. Once the battery is fully charged it can be maintained by applying a charging voltage of 2.24 to 2.25 volts per cell (13.4-13.5 for 12volt and 26.8 to 27.0 for 24volt). This is called a “Float” charge.
How many times can a deep cycle battery be recharged?
Used correctly, deep cycle batteries can provide
200 to more than 3000 discharge/charge cycles
. Starting batteries are not designed for sustained discharge and will last for only 50-60 use cycles.
Can you charge a deep cycle battery at 40 amps?
Charging a car battery at 40 amps
shouldn't be done for longer than 2 hours
. Fast charging car batteries can be dangerous and should be done in short bursts. Failure to do so could result in explosions.
Can I charge a deep cycle battery with a solar panel?
Investing in solar panels will allow you to charge your deep cycle battery with free energy from the sun, even when away from mains power
. After panels have been placed in the sun, they will need to be attached to a solar regulator, also known as a charge controller.
How long should you charge a deep cycle battery?
It usually takes around
4-6 hours
In most cases, a marine battery will take around 4-6 hours to charge. This will bring your battery from 0% charged to 80% charged. In addition, it depends on the type of charger that you're using.
Why won't my deep cycle battery take a charge?
This is
typically a symptom of battery age, damage from over/under charging, or sulfation
. You can sometimes improve a battery in this condition by using a desulfation device, otherwise you'll have to live with the low capacity or replace the battery.
What happens if a deep cycle battery goes flat?
If you do flatten / over-discharge a deep cycle battery,
charge it back up ASAP
. Use the right size and type of charger, and on the right setting (if in doubt contact us). Leave the battery on a trickle-charge when not in use, or top-up the charge monthly.
Is it better to charge a battery at 2 amps or 10 amps?
It is best to slow charge the battery
. Slow charging rates vary depending on the battery's type and capacity. However, when charging an automotive battery, 10 amps or less is considered a slow charge, while 20 amps or above is generally considered a fast charge.
Can you use a trickle charger on a deep cycle battery?
Trickle chargers definitely work for marine batteries
because they don't generate excess heat. During a standard charge, the battery heats up. It's certainly safe to touch, but these issues occur within the battery, including: Internal materials slowly break down.
What should a fully charged 12v deep cycle battery read?
Voltage on a fully charged battery will read 2.12 to 2.15 volts per cell, or
12.7 volts
for a 12 volt battery.
How do you charge a 12 volt deep cycle battery?
Set your battery charger to a slow or trickle charge
and select whether you are charging a 6, 12 or 24 volt deep cycle battery. If your battery charger has the option to set the voltage for the charge, set it to 20 percent of the rated amp per hour rate of the battery you are charging.
What is the difference with a deep cycle battery?
Unlike a traditional car battery, deep-cycle batteries
provide a long, steady stream of power
. It can provide a short burst of power, but nothing like a car battery. Deep cycle batteries are also lead-acid batteries but they are designed to be discharged and recharged regularly.
How do you charge a deep cycle AGM battery?
The best way to charge an AGM battery is
with a charger designed for that specific purpose
. When charging, remember that AGM batteries must not be charged over 14.8 volts in most cases. The manufacturer of your particular battery probably has a specification and guide sheet to set some specific rules and guidelines.
